The organizers of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon (ABLCM) announced a revised race route for the landmark 11th edition of the marathon, which is slated for Saturday, February 14.
This information was shared in a statement by Kola Daniel, Media Assistant to Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), in Lagos.
Mr. Daniel noted that the Gold-label Marathon is entering an exciting new phase and will be the first of its kind for Africa’s premier road race.
"The 42 km marathon will now kick off at ORCA Mall located on Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, traversing segments of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road.
The race will culminate at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, showcasing Lagos as the epicenter of road racing within Africa.
The strategic alterations to the route mark a significant transition for the marathon into a new decade, aiming to enhance the experience for athletes while focusing on modern infrastructure.
This updated route also introduces a fresh narrative for the race, reinforcing Lagos’s position on the global stage as a rapidly developing city," he stated.
He further explained that after ten editions on a well-known track that has become ingrained in Nigeria's sports culture, the organizers have reimagined the route to honor the marathon's illustrious legacy.
“This change will bring new energy, intrigue, and excitement for runners, spectators, and audiences worldwide alike.
Integrating the Lagos–Calabar Coastal road will offer a breathtaking view of one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, all part of a World Athletics Gold Label race that is followed globally,” he added.
Yetunde Olopade, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Ltd, which manages ABLCM, emphasized that the 11th edition signifies a noteworthy evolution rather than just another race.
“The new route gives us the opportunity to rethink the marathon experience while continuing to adhere to our principles of excellence, safety, and top- tier execution.
As a World Athletics Gold Label event, ABLCM continues to attract elite athletes from around the world, alongside numerous recreational runners, and garners significant attention from both local and international media.
Beyond mere competition, the race serves as a robust platform for sports tourism, urban storytelling, youth engagement, and the advocacy of healthy lifestyles.
While the newly introduced 42 km route has been revamped for this edition, the 10 km race will maintain its traditional course, ensuring continuity for those participants,” she concluded.
Additional details, including route maps, updates for athletes, and logistics for race day, will be available through the official Access Bank Lagos City Marathon communication channels.
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